If you own a hot tub in the UK, you’ve probably noticed something — your running costs change depending on the time of year.

This leads to one of the most common questions UK hot tub owners ask:

Do hot tubs cost more to run in winter than summer?

The short answer is yes, but not always as much as people expect.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

Average hot tub running costs in winter vs summer (UK)
Why winter costs more
How much more you can expect to pay
Ways to reduce winter running costs
Whether it’s cheaper to turn your hot tub off in winter

This guide is written for UK hot tub owners with basic knowledge, so we’ll keep things practical and realistic.

Do Hot Tubs Cost More to Run in Winter in the UK?

Yes, hot tubs typically cost more to run in winter in the UK because:

Colder air temperatures
Increased heat loss
More frequent heating cycles
Wind exposure

Your hot tub heater simply has to work harder to maintain temperature.

However, thanks to insulation and covers, the increase is usually manageable.

Average Hot Tub Running Costs: Winter vs Summer (UK)

Here’s a realistic comparison based on typical UK usage:

Season	Inflatable Hot Tub	Hard Shell Hot Tub
Summer	£25–£60 per month	£35–£90 per month
Winter	£45–£100 per month	£90–£150 per month

These figures vary depending on:

Outside temperature
Hot tub insulation
Frequency of use
Electricity prices

But this gives a realistic UK estimate.

Why Hot Tubs Cost More to Run in Winter

There are a few main reasons why winter increases hot tub running costs.

1. Colder Air Temperatures

In summer, outdoor temperatures may sit around:

15°C – 22°C

In winter, UK temperatures often drop to:

0°C – 8°C

Your hot tub usually runs at:

36°C–40°C

The bigger the temperature difference, the more energy required to maintain heat.

2. Increased Heat Loss

Hot tubs lose heat through:

Water surface
Sides of the tub
Base of the tub
Air jets and pipes

Cold winter air increases this heat loss significantly.

This means your heater runs more often.

3. Wind Makes a Big Difference

Wind is often overlooked, but it can dramatically increase running costs.

Wind:

Removes heat from the cover
Cools the sides of the hot tub
Increases evaporation

A sheltered hot tub often costs less to run in winter than one exposed to open wind.

How Much More Does a Hot Tub Cost in Winter?

Most UK hot tub owners see:

£15–£40 extra per month in winter

This depends on:

Type of hot tub
Insulation quality
How often you use it

Inflatable hot tubs often see slightly bigger increases because they lose heat faster.

Hard shell hot tubs usually hold heat better but still see higher winter usage.

Should You Turn Your Hot Tub Off in Winter?

This is a common question.

In many cases, it’s actually cheaper to keep your hot tub running.

Why?

Because reheating a cold hot tub:

Uses significant electricity
Can take several hours
Puts strain on the heater

Maintaining temperature often uses less energy overall.

However, if you’re not using your hot tub for:

Several weeks
Or over winter entirely

Then switching it off may make sense.

How to Reduce Hot Tub Running Costs in Winter (UK)

Here are some simple ways to reduce winter costs.

Use a Good Quality Cover

A thick, insulated cover helps:

Retain heat
Reduce heater use
Lower electricity costs

This is one of the easiest ways to save money.

Add Insulation Under Your Hot Tub

Cold ground can cause heat loss.

Using:

Foam mats
Insulation boards
Purpose-made hot tub mats

Can help reduce running costs.

This is especially helpful for inflatable hot tubs.

Shelter Your Hot Tub

Positioning your hot tub:

Against a wall
Near a fence
Under a pergola

Can reduce wind exposure and lower costs.

Lower Temperature Slightly

Reducing temperature from:

40°C to 37°C

Can noticeably reduce energy usage.

Many owners find 37°C just as comfortable.

Is It Worth Using a Hot Tub in Winter?

Many UK hot tub owners actually prefer winter use.

Benefits include:

Warmer contrast with cold air
Relaxation during darker months
Year-round value

Even with slightly higher running costs, many owners find winter use well worth it.

Winter vs Summer: Realistic UK Example

Example inflatable hot tub:

Summer:

£30 per month

Winter:

£60 per month

Difference:

£30 per month